BACK ON THE MOORING BALL IN CHAGUARAMAS

MARCH 1, 2014

ROD ON GRILL DUTY

We are back in Chaguaramas on the mooring ball.  Our stay in Scotland Bay was a wonderful change from this busy harbor.  The bay is large surrounded with low green hills on 3 sides.  There was plenty of local traffic over the weekend that kept the quiet anchorage hopping. While there we kept all the fruit in the fridge, fruit bats are abundant and it is not uncommon to find one munching on your bananas if they are left unattended. The only signs of civilization on shore were the ruins of the old recreation center the Americans built here in World War II.  The buildings are almost gone, reclaimed by the jungle. We enjoyed the cool breeze and clear water while watching pelicans fishing and turtles swimming around the boat.

MANY STAIRS TO NO WHERE

We came in on Wednesday from Scotland Bay to pickup our new autopilot from the dealer.  It was actually waiting on us and Rod soon had all the parts installed.  On Friday the Ray Marine dealer had to come out & check everything to sign off on the warranty.  Everything works like new.



SCOTLAND BAY

While installing the wiring Rod discovered a broken fitting on a line to Bob the water maker, one more for the list.  Then as the installation was completed one of the pelican hooks on a lifeline decided to break.  Since that had to be replaced Rod took the opportunity to check all the life line connections for wear.   The lifelines have now been thoroughly checked and all repairs made.  Next up a little more antenna work while having an ice cold Carib.
When we arrived in the harbor most of the mooring balls were full and we picked one up about 100 yards south of the one we had been on.  What a difference a little distance makes, we could pickup NO Internet service at all.  Very frustrating.  After 3 days back in civilization we took the computer to shore and used the Internet at a cafe where we had lunch.  Finally back in touch.  Late yesterday our original ball became vacant and we quickly moved It's Perfect 100 yards back to our original spot.  Now we have Internet anytime day or night.  With moving It's Perfect around so much I am getting much  better at driving right up to the ball so Rod can pick up the mooring and secure the boat.  You know what they say "Practice makes perfect."